US Secretary of State Marco Rubio travels to Saudi Arabia to discuss Ukraine amid President Trump’s decision on military support. His visit aims to advance peace efforts in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and coincide with G7 meetings in Canada. Key discussions are expected involving Ukraine’s cooperation in resources and potential concessions to Russia, alongside strategic talks with Saudi leadership.

On Sunday, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio embarked on a trip to Saudi Arabia to engage in discussions regarding Ukraine. This visit comes amid uncertainty regarding President Donald Trump’s decision on military and intelligence support following a freeze. Rubio’s itinerary also includes participation in Group of Seven (G7) talks in Canada, marking a significant moment as he is the first major US official to travel to the region since Trump took office.

During his three-day discussions in Jeddah, Rubio aims to promote the president’s objective of concluding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, however, refrained from labeling the situation as a “Russian invasion of Ukraine,” differing from the terminology used by the prior administration and US allies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to attend the talks in Jeddah, alongside Trump’s advisor and envoy, Steve Witkoff.

In recent comments, Trump expressed optimism about the outcomes of the discussions in Saudi Arabia. He stated, “I think we’re going to have a good result in Saudi Arabia… we have a lot of good people going out there,” while suggesting potential positive developments for both Ukraine and Russia. Trump previously halted aid to Ukraine after a poorly received February meeting with Zelensky, which ended without agreements on essential Ukraine-US demands.

Special envoy Keith Kellogg indicated that US assistance could resume if Zelensky signs a deal regarding Ukraine’s mineral resources, but ultimately, the decision rests with Trump. Reports suggest that Trump may require further concessions from Zelensky to consider reinstating aid. Trump asserted that Ukraine has not adequately demonstrated an eagerness for peace, declaring, “Right now they haven’t shown it to the extent that they should.”

European leaders are actively seeking alternatives to compensate for the absence of US support, while Zelensky emphasizes the necessity of US guarantees in any negotiations with Russia. As Russia continues its assaults on Ukraine, Trump has signaled that he might impose stricter sanctions on Russia should it fail to engage in diplomatic talks.

Previously, Rubio had engaged with his Russian counterpart, signaling an interest in fostering economic cooperation. His current agenda includes meetings with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reflecting the kingdom’s role as a key diplomatic ally. Additionally, Rubio will attend G7 meetings in Quebec to advocate for US objectives concerning peace, security, and global stability amid ongoing tensions with Canada.

In conclusion, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s journey to Saudi Arabia underscores the complexities surrounding US foreign policy towards Ukraine and Russia amidst President Trump’s ongoing deliberations regarding military assistance. The discussions aim to advance peace efforts while addressing both regional and bilateral tensions. The outcomes of these negotiations could significantly impact the geopolitical landscape, not only in the context of Ukraine but also in relation to broader international relations involving Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the G7 nations.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv

Related posts:

Rubio’s Diplomatic Diplomatic Efforts in Saudi Arabia on Ukraine Conflict Marco Rubio Visits Saudi Arabia to Assess Ukraine Situation and U.S. Aid Freeze Marco Rubio’s Diplomatic Mission to Saudi Arabia Focuses on Ukraine Aid and Relations Rubio’s Diplomatic Mission in Saudi Arabia: Key Talks on Ukraine Aid Freeze